Mexico

nahuatl word "Mexihco"

Name origin

Nahuatl

language of the Aztecs

Mexico City

capital of Mexico

Aztec

Mexico flag symbol rooted in ________ mythology

Green

initially symbolized independence from Spain, now hope

White

purity and unity, Catholic faith

Red

originally blood of those who fought for Mexico's independence, now union of Mexicans

Snake

symbolizes Mexico's enemies, eagle defeating as symbol of triumph over challenges

Cactus

represents island where Aztecs found their city

Sierra Madre Occi + Ori

major mountain ranges run parallel to each other

Yucatan Peninsula

unique flat region known for Mayan ruins, tropical climate, rich biodiversity

Cenotes

natural limestone sinkholes formed when cave ceilings collapse

Gulf of Mexico & Yucatan Coast

beaches famous for white sand and turquoise waters

Baja California

separates pacific ocean from gulf of Cali

Gulf of California

aka Sea of Cortez

Pico de Orizaba

aka Citlaltépetl

active dormant volcano

highest mountain in Mexico, 3rd highest in NA

Lake Chapala

Mexico's largest lake, very shallow

Aeromexico (AM)

flag carrier

CATEDRAL METROPOLITANA

Grand colonial-era cathedral located in the Zócalo (main square) of Mexico City

built over the ruins of the Aztec Templo Mayor

The largest cathedral in the Americas.

CHICHEN ITZA

An ancient Maya city in the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its massive pyramid, El Castillo, which was used for astronomical and ceremonial purposes

EL ARCO

natural rock arch at southern tip of Baja California Peninsula, in Cabo San Lucas

Pacific Ocean becomes the Gulf of California

TEOTIHUACAN

Ancient Mesoamerican city near Mexico City, famous for Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon